oxidization for nickel

[stevec]

How dark and how durable is the black oxidization treatment for nickel? Is it comparable to "bluing"?
I'm interested in the anti-corrosion properties of electroless nickle plating, but would like a durable, dark finish.

Steve

[mcaswell]

Better than bluing, which will rust overnight if left in a wet environment.

The oxidization process actually corrodes some of the nickel plate, so it's not going to be as durable as the original nickel plate.

[stevec]

Thanks for the quick reply!

How dark is the color? Is the corrosion layer as wear resistant as the original nickel, or will it easily get rubbed off, exposing the nickel underneath? If it is less wear resistant, is it as wear resistant as iron oxide used for normal "bluing"?

Steve

[mcaswell]

The color depends on how long the part is immersed in the solution. Sure, you could probably make the finish similar to a bluing effect, with some experimentation.

Need to clarify that I am referring to the products found at http://www.caswellplating.com/metal.htm, not some other oxidizating agents.

The oxidization process will weaken the corrosion resistant properties of the electroless nickel. I don't have any detailed information about much the plate is weakened, but common sense dictates that if the part is oxidized longer (darker) it will be weakened more.

[stevec]

Does the oxidation solution work on the electroless krome?

Steve

[mcaswell]

Yes it will.